From Auckland to Asia: the New Zealand Trio takes to the stage
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Photo caption: The New Zealand Trio from left: pianist Sarah Watkins, cellist Ashley Brown and violinist Justine Cormack
Media release
9 August 2006
From Auckland to Asia: the New Zealand Trio takes to the stage
The international spotlight is set to shine on the New Zealand Trio, one of the country's most acclaimed professional
chamber music groups.
The New Zealand Trio, which took up residency at The University of Auckland in 2004, comprises three artists, each
firmly established in their careers. Violinist Justine Cormack, cellist Ashley Brown and pianist Sarah Watkins
commission works by leading New Zealand composers and focus on broadening the community's interest in and appreciation
for classical music.
Next month, the New Zealand Trio will embark on a tour of North Asia with the university's Vice-Chancellor and other
representatives. Over the course of ten days, the ensemble will give concerts to select audiences in Hong Kong, China,
and Korea, where the Vice-Chancellor will attend high-level events with Asian dignitaries, government officials and key
community and education leaders. The musicians are also planning to lead master classes at several prestigious music
conservatories, including the Shanghai Conservatory and Central Conservatory in Beijing.
"We are delighted the New Zealand Trio is part of this important international initiative," says Dr Christopher
Tremewan, Pro Vice-Chancellor (International). "The ensemble's stunning, highly-skilled performances will resonate
strongly in societies which value the arts and culture so highly."
Before embarking on the international journey, the New Zealand Trio is setting its sights closer to home. On Sunday, 27
August, the ensemble will perform at the University's School of Music. Featuring the world premiere of two commissions
by top Kiwi composers John Rimmer and Lyell Cresswell, the Auckland concert will also include works by Australian Ross
Edwards, Chinese/American Bright Sheng, and Shostakovich.
"This vibrant showcase of contemporary music will appeal to audiences who are new to chamber music as well as to those
already familiar with our work," says Sarah Watkins. "We really enjoy introducing audiences to the intriguing and often
surprising sounds of classical music."
The New Zealand Trio's Auckland Concert, Sunday, 27 August at 5pm, at the School of Music's Music Theatre (6 Symonds
Street). Price: $30 Adult, $20 Seniors, $10 Students, $65 Family (2 Adults, 2 children). Book at Ticketmaster
www.ticketmaster.co.nz.
ENDS